“While I breathe, I hope” – (Dum spiro spero)

Every time I take a selfie, I see

A few more wrinkles and fine lines on me

Saw the same on my mother’s aging face

Feared losing my pretty mom to old age.

Now, my heart aches for children of mine

Will they fret and fear for dear old me?

Our short lives are like notches on time

I believe whatever will be, will be.

I laugh, sing, dance, act in the hope

Our memories of love will help them cope

Like my parents are in my soul and heart

We are together even when apart.

Wrinkles, crow’s feet, fine lines, I promise you

You all are my medals of achievement

Everything about your presence is true

Let us rejoice and reject bereavement.

-Sulekha